Maliki Begins Another 100 Days

As Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki’s 100-day deadline passed this week, no ministerial heads have rolled; the delicate power balance in cabinet would not have allowed it.

While it’s true that any dismissals from cabinet should take account of the scale of Iraq’s challenges, and the fact that it would have taken much longer than 100 days to solve them, there is widespread discontent at what is being seen as a failure.

The reported cancellation of a major press conference on electricity supply has added to public dissatisfaction, and many are expecting increased numbers on the streets for Friday’s demonstrations.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister claims that his ultimatum had been misinterpreted (although he had 100 days to clarify his position), and has given a new 100-day deadline for further improvements.